Why Is It So Hard?
Lately, I’ve been wondering why the best and healthiest decisions often feel harder and less enjoyable than the easy, momentarily satisfying ones.
Why does Diet Coke or coffee seem more appealing than plain water?
Why does fried chicken outshine grilled chicken when it comes to flavor?
Why does lounging on the couch with Netflix feel better than dragging yourself to the gym?
Why do French fries beat a baked potato every time?
Why is healthy food not only less tasty but also more expensive?
Why is watching TV so much easier than diving into a good book?
The truth is, the choices that lead to a longer, happier, and more fulfilling life often require us to take the harder path in the short term. The decisions that bring true peace, joy, and longevity aren’t always the most convenient or pleasurable in the moment.
In marriage, for example, it’s easier to avoid meaningful conversations, neglect date nights, brush off disagreements, and let physical intimacy take a back seat. But here’s the catch: if you don’t choose the hard things now, your marriage might become the hardest thing later.
I once had a couple in my office who said, “What you’re asking us to do is hard!” I replied gently but firmly, “With all due respect, the way your lives look right now seems a lot harder.”
People often ask me, “Why don’t more couples go on dates?” The answer is simple: it’s easier not to. But here’s my challenge to you—make the harder choice. Prioritize one-on-one, undistracted time with your spouse every week. It might not feel easy, but it’s worth it.
So, choose the hard now. Because when you do, life—and love—gets a whole lot better later.
Action Step: Identify one “hard” choice you’ve been avoiding that could improve your life, marriage, or health. Commit to taking that step this week. For example:
- If it’s in your marriage, plan and schedule a date night with your spouse—even if it’s as simple as a walk together or coffee at home without distractions.
- If it’s your health, swap one indulgent meal or drink for a healthier alternative, like water instead of soda or grilled chicken instead of fried.
- If it’s personal growth, choose to read a book or journal for 15 minutes instead of scrolling through social media or watching TV.
Write down your commitment and put it somewhere visible as a reminder. Then, reflect on how making the “hard” choice made you feel afterward.
